UCP of Tampa Earns Three-Year CARF-Accreditation

                      

 Tampa, Florida (October 11, 2011) UCP of Tampa (UCP) recently earned a three-year accreditation through the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). UCP’s CARF-accreditation demonstrates its commitment to continually improving its services and promoting the highest standards of quality within its programs.

On August 29-30, 2011, a team of CARF-International surveyors conducted an in-depth survey of UCP’s pediatric speech, occupational / physical therapy and adult vocational services.  The survey conveyed that UCP has strengths in many areas such as staff dedication, bilingual staff to meet Hillsborough County’s cultural needs, and high engagement with parents and family members.  The organization was also commended for the longevity of so many personnel and their commitment to UCP’s mission which leads to successful service delivery and outcomes. 

“UCP is honored of our 3-year CARF accreditation achievement.  This industry recognition validates the excellent programs delivered by our staff, and the benefits our clients receive from fulfilling our mission” said Andrew Cohen, UCP of Tampa Board Chair, “These standards will be our long-term guide to expanding our therapy, adult and child services.”

Additionally, one prominent area that received positive feedback within the results of the survey is UCP’s efforts to ensure that all individuals with disabilities have opportunity to be gainfully employed.  Some of the individuals served have been in their employment placements for 15 to 20 years. 

“UCP’s accreditation can be considered a “seal of quality” of its services,” said Joe Rutherford, CEO of UCP   “We have earned this award since 1991 because our staff have met the rigorous standards as well as delivered positive results to the children and families who use our services.”

CARF-International is an independent, nonprofit accreditation of human service providers in several areas such as behavioral health, child and youth services and medical rehabilitation. CARF accredits the services of an organization only if those services meet the required standards.

About United Palsy of Tampa

Celebrating 50 years, UCP of Tampa is a private,  not-for-profit organziation providing support, education and therapy services for children with and without special needs, adults and families.  Services are offered in Sun City, Tampa and Brooksville, FL.